Santiago de Chile is the cultural center of Chile and provides many sightseeing opportunities. Its location in the center of the country makes it a perfect starting point from which to visit other areas in Chile as well. Taking advantage of guided tours out of Santiago can be an ideal way to see everything worth seeing in and near this city that is set near the foot of the Andes.
A historic walking tour of Santiago begins in the park at Santa Lucia Hill and takes you through the downtown streets past Chile's seat of government and other historical buildings like Parliament and the House of Justice. You will also experience the Plaza de Armas, which is the social center of Santiago with its bustling streets and unusual street artists. You will see the national Cathedral grounds and its church and other older buildings that date back to Chile's colonization. The tour continues through more pedestrian streets to the local fish market known as Mercado Central where you can savor great examples of Chile's famous seafood dishes.
Another wonderful sightseeing tour that begins in Santiago is a trip Chile's main seaport of Valparaiso on the Pacific Ocean. The tour passes through farmlands and vineyards. You will also cross the bay to visit one of Chile's most visited resort areas, Vina del Mar and the beach there.
